Queer Press 18 August 2026
Q News
National LGBTQIA+ ice hockey tournament Queer Clash returns in 2027
A TOURNAMENT BUILT FOR THE COMMUNITY.
How a vision for genuine inclusion and learning led to Australia’s largest LGBTQIA+ ice hockey tournament.
Founder & Tournament Organiser
Kade Matthews
KADE MATTHEWS
Kade Matthews (he/him) is a dedicated advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sports, serving as the Vice President of the Queer Sporting Alliance and the founder and president of the Southern Lights Ice Hockey Club. As a regular player and coach in the recreational divisions at Melbourne's IceHQ, Kade saw an opportunity to create a space where queer athletes could compete and celebrate authentically.
This vision was realized with the successful launch of the inaugural Queerclash tournament in April 2026. Building on that momentum, Kade is currently spearheading the expansion of the 2027 tournament and leading the way forward to make Queerclash a fixture on the calendar.
"Queerclash is about showing that genuine kindness, diverse community, and a shared love of the game can break down barriers and make ice sports accessible for everyone."
THE EVOLUTION OF QUEERCLASH
SEPT 2022
THE ICE HOCKEY PRIDE CUP
The journey started during the height of the COVID pandemic when Kade Matthews created the inaugural Ice Hockey Pride Cup, bringing LGBTIQA+ players and allies together for a one-of-a-kind event.
JUN 2024
THE SEATTLE INFLUENCE
After attending the Seattle Pride Classic in the US, a new vision was formed: what if Australia had a tournament built entirely around queer joy, participation, and accessibility rather than traditional competition?
APRIL 17–19, 2026
THE INAUGURAL QUEERCLASH
Queerclash officially launched at IceHQ in Melbourne. 128 players from across Australia came together for a weekend of round-robin hockey, utilising a silent ladder draft to build eight perfectly balanced, community-first teams.
APRIL 1-4, 2027
THE NEXT CHAPTER
Building on massive community support, Queerclash expands into a four-day festival of hockey. We continue to break down barriers, fundraise for intersectional charities, and guarantee every skater a safe spot on the ice.
IN THE MEDIA
Read and watch the latest press coverage highlighting our tournament, our players, and the broader fight for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sport.
READY TO GET ON THE ICE?
Sign up for the draft pool, or get involved as a referee, scorekeeper, or volunteer. All skill levels are welcome.